about cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common fatal genetic disease affecting Canadian children and young adults. There is no cure.

Cystic fibrosis causes various effects on the body, but mainly affects the digestive system and lungs. The degree of cystic fibrosis involvement differs from person to person. However, the persistence and ongoing infection in the lungs, with destruction of lungs and loss of lung function, eventually causes death in the majority of people who have cystic fibrosis.

Typical complications caused by cystic fibrosis are difficulty in digesting fats and proteins; vitamin deficiencies due to loss of pancreatic enzymes; and progressive loss of lung function.

It is estimated that one in every 3,600 children born in Canada has cystic fibrosis. Over 4,200 Canadian children, adolescents, and adults with cystic fibrosis attend specialized CF clinics.

why shine for cf

Shinerama is Canada’s largest post-secondary fundraiser in support of Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Over 35,000 student volunteers from 45 Canadian universities and colleges across the country come together every year to make a difference in the lives of those battling cystic fibrosis (CF). Student volunteers all over Canada are shining shoes, flipping burgers, washing cars and doing whatever it takes to raise crucial funding to fight cystic fibrosis. This national event puts the “fun” in fundraising!

Since 1964, Shinerama has raised approximately $27 million dollars for life-saving CF research and care. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all past and present Shiners. The support from Shinerama schools and students over the past 54 years has been instrumental to advancing the battle against this devastating disease.

As the event continues to gain momentum, so do our research efforts and the progress we’ve made in the search for a cure or control for CF. A child diagnosed in the 1960s was not expected to live long enough to attend kindergarten. The median age of survival of Canadians is among the highest in the world, at 53.3 years of age in 2016.

The fight against cystic fibrosis is far from over. Every week in Canada, one child is diagnosed through new born screening. Of the Canadians who died in 2016, half were under the age of 38.9. There is no cure.

We rely on the generous support of our volunteers, donors and partners in our shared mission to improve the lives of Canadians living with CF, and to ultimately find a cure or control for this devastating disease. Register, fundraise or donate to Shinerama today to help breathe life into the future of Canadians who are struggling to breathe every day.

key dates

05.17.18 - 05.21.18

Shinerama National Leadership Conference
Fun-filled weekend to network with Shinerama leaders from across the country, learn more about cystic fibrosis and how to run a successful Shinerama campaign!